ATHENS, Ala. (WHNT) – There’s a summertime tradition in Athens that just seems to get a little bigger each year. The Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival is only open for a few days each year, but the proceeds fund a number of their projects year round.

It’s been a magical place for at least 4 generations. A neighborhood kiddie carnival tucked away for 55 years within one of the historical districts of Athens. There are men here tonight with their grandchildren, some with great-grandchildren, who used to come here when they were children.

“What you see out here, a lot of the rides were used back then,” says Lions Club member Henry White.

Very little has changed over the last half-century. The old train is so old, they don’t even make parts for it anymore.

“When it breaks down, we have to special make the parts by hand,” says “conductor” and Lions Club Member Barry Moore.

But the youngsters will stand in line for a few laps on the Lions Club Express. It’s sometimes hard to tell who’s having the most fun.

Admission to the park is free and each ride, just 50 cents. It doesn’t sound like much, but over a few summer nights, the Lions Club will raise enough money to fund most of their community projects for the entire year. And memories are made here that can last a lifetime… In a little neighborhood carnival that time forgot, but where tradition lives.

The Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, but only through August 2nd.